Residential Advisor, Upward Bound Program

Job Description

Job Description

Wilkes University's Upward Bound Program is seeking motivated and responsible Residential Advisors (RAs) for the Summer 2026 residential program. RAs serve as mentors and supervisors for high school students in a college-preparatory program that includes academics, tutoring, cultural enrichment, and community-building activities. This role supports a safe, structured, and engaging residential environment while helping students build skills for college success.

The program runs June 21 through July 31, 2026, with RA move-in on June 14 and staff training from June 14–20. RAs are required to live in a Wilkes University residence hall and supervise students Sunday evenings through Fridays each week.

Responsibilities include mentoring and supervising students, maintaining a safe residential environment, supporting study sessions and academic engagement, assisting with recreational and cultural activities, enforcing program policies, and participating in evening duty rotations and on-call responsibilities. RAs may also chaperone trips, document student concerns, and provide classroom supervision when needed (additional compensation provided).

Candidates must be current college sophomores, juniors, seniors, or college graduates and able to pass a background check and complete Mandated Reporter Training. Preferred candidates will have experience working with youth, mentoring, residential life, or summer programs, along with strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. The ability to manage student behavior, respond to concerns, and work with diverse student populations, including first-generation and low-income students, is highly valued.

The position pays $15.00/hour for the 7-week program and includes room and board, meals during the program, scheduled evenings off, no weekend responsibilities, and additional compensation for classroom coverage.

To apply, visit Please be sure to include a cover letter, resume, and three references.

Wilkes University is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community and strongly encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The University does not discriminate in its employment practices or educational programs on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital or family status, military or veteran status, or genetic information.